Indonesian and Australian government signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreement between Australian and Indonesian law enforcement agencies to tackle transnational drug trafficking.

The MoU to fight drug trafficking was signed in Jakarta today between the Australian Federal Police and the Indonesia National Narcotics Board, according to the Australian embassy`s press release received here, Thursday.

"This agreement complements existing arrangements between our two nations designed to help us crack down on transnational drug trafficking in our region," said Australian Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O`Connor in his visit to Indonesia, here Thursday.

This Memorandum of Understanding reinforces anti-drug trafficking capabilities between the two countries and builds on the good work that is already being done to stop drug trafficking, Minister O`Connor said.

The MoU was signed by AFP Commissioner Tony Negus and Head of the Indonesian National Narcotics Board, known as Badan Narkotika Nasional (BNN), Gories Mere.

The new agreement builds on an existing agreement between the two governments on Combating Transnational Crime and Developing Police Cooperation, signed in late 2008.

"As one of our nearest neighbors, it is important that Australia has a close and productive relationship with Indonesia when it comes to law enforcement," said Minister O`Connor.

"The Gillard Government fully supports the partnership between Australian and Indonesian law enforcement agencies and looks forward to seeing the shared benefits of this continued co-operation," he said.
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